2026 Ford Explorer Tremor: Almost Perfect, One Annoying Flaw

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor: Almost Perfect, One Annoying Flaw

The Ford Explorer Tremor is here, and it’s surprisingly good. Ford nearly nailed it with this off-road-ready SUV. It combines the powerful engine we loved in the ST model with a much more comfortable suspension. But, there’s one small, yet frustrating, issue that might drive some buyers crazy: wireless-only Apple CarPlay.

Performance That Impresses

Under the hood, the 2026 Explorer Tremor boasts a potent 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers a strong 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This setup makes the Explorer Tremor feel much faster than it needs to be, with plenty of grunt for quick acceleration. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, though manual shifting isn’t really necessary given the abundant torque. The all-wheel-drive system has a rear-wheel bias, which can make the back end feel a bit loose and playful, especially when traction control is turned off. This makes it fun to drive, even on twisty roads, though it’s still very capable off-road.

A Comfortable and Practical Interior

Inside, the Tremor thankfully avoids the massive, overwhelming screens found in some other new vehicles. It features a more traditional and user-friendly setup. You’ll notice stylish orange stitching throughout the cabin, adding a sporty touch. The captain’s chairs in the second row are comfortable, and even the third row offers decent space for occasional use, making it a practical family hauler. The sound system is good, and the climate controls are easy to manage. The steering wheel feels great in your hands, with a nice size and good tactile buttons, unlike some other Fords that have gone all-digital.

Off-Road Ready and Refined

The Tremor package adds a 1-inch lift, skid plates, tow hooks, and unique gold or orange accents to give it a tougher look. It also comes with all-terrain tires, which are slightly overinflated from the factory but contribute to the comfortable ride. Unlike the ST model, which had a stiff suspension, the Tremor’s setup is well-tuned for a smoother experience, even when tackling rougher terrain. The 360-degree camera system is excellent, providing clear views for parking and off-roading. Even the BlueCruise hands-free driving system works well, though it requires a subscription after the initial period.

The One Major Annoyance: Wireless CarPlay Only

Here’s the big catch: the 2026 Explorer Tremor, like some other recent Ford models, only offers wireless Apple CarPlay. This means you can’t plug in your iPhone using a USB cable to connect. While wireless is convenient, it creates problems. If you need to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for another device, you have to disconnect CarPlay. Similarly, connecting other devices like a gimbal for filming becomes difficult. The reviewers wished Ford would offer both wired and wireless options, as this forced wireless-only setup can be a real hassle for users who need more connectivity flexibility.

Value and Target Buyer

The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor starts at $59,600 Canadian for the base model. The more powerful V6 engine, which reviewers strongly recommend, significantly increases the price, pushing this tester to $76,675 Canadian. This puts it in a similar price bracket to the Explorer ST. The target buyer is likely someone who wants a capable, comfortable, and stylish SUV for family duties but also enjoys occasional off-roading or simply likes the rugged aesthetic. The Tremor package adds valuable off-road hardware and a more comfortable ride compared to the ST, making it a compelling option if you can overlook the wireless CarPlay limitation. For those who prioritize a smooth ride, strong performance, and a touch of off-road capability in their family SUV, the Explorer Tremor is a great choice, provided the connectivity issue isn’t a dealbreaker.

Verdict

The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is a fantastic SUV that gets so many things right. It offers a great blend of power, comfort, and off-road prowess. The upgraded suspension is a welcome change from the firmer ST model. However, the decision to offer only wireless Apple CarPlay is a puzzling and frustrating flaw in an otherwise excellent package. If Ford can address this connectivity issue in the future, the Explorer Tremor would be nearly perfect.

Source: 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Review – 1 MAJOR FLAW! (YouTube)